Manchester City could end up signing both reported Liverpool targets Jude Bellingham and Declan Rice this summer.
That’s according to journalist Graeme Bailey. Speaking to TeamTALK, Bailey gave his assessment of where Rice may end up after leaving West Ham, and it isn’t good news for Liverpool’s chances.
“The race for Declan Rice is again intensifying. He is leaving West Ham United this summer – everyone knows it, but it is again unclear where he might end up,” said the journalist.
“One side that needs watching is Manchester City who are again seriously considering him as part of a possible midfield overhaul. With Ilkay Gundogan, Bernardo Silva and possibly Kalvin Phillips all possible departures, there will be more than enough room at City to take him and they have always appreciated him.
“And I am told that their interest in Jude Bellingham would not mean one or the other, they could be taking both.
“The same can’t be said of Liverpool as their main interest remains firmly in the pursuit of Jude Bellingham – who is yet to make a decision on his future. But they won’t be looking at both players.”
Bellingham first choice for Liverpool
If it’s a straight choice between Rice and Bellingham this summer, then we all know which way Liverpool will go. That’s been clear for a long time now.
By and large, supporters would surely agree with that. Although there has been some clamour from pundits for the Reds to sign Bellingham’s England midfield partner instead of the 19-year-old.
But in reality, that should only happen if Liverpool have missed out on Bellingham. Unfortunately right now, it seems as though Real Madrid are the Reds biggest competitors to sign the Borussia Dortmund man. As a result, that would surely only intensify City’s pursuit of Rice.
Should that happen, Liverpool will potentially lose out on both players. Although there are alternatives out there, that would be a real shame.
If City do end up pulling off the seemingly impossible and landing both players, it would be hugely costly. They’d potentially have to fork out £200m+ to land the duo. One may be possible for Liverpool, but both certainly isn’t.